Economics

Doctor of Philosophy

In addition to completing the general requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy, prospective candidates must pass a preliminary, two-part comprehensive examination, as well as demonstrate advanced knowledge in one field of concentration. At the discretion of each field, this requirement may be met by either an examination or a paper requirement. The student is required to complete the preliminary examination at the end of the first year (in June). Examinations ordinarily will be taken at the first opportunity following the end of the fourth semester in the program and must be taken before the beginning of the sixth semester. If the Field requires a paper the prospective candidate must complete a paper by the first day of classes of the Fall semester following their second year.

A dissertation proposal should be presented to the faculty within three semesters of completing the preliminary examination. The Ph.D. dissertation must be written, approved, and defended within seven years of matriculation into the program.

A detailed statement of departmental requirements for the Ph.D. may be obtained http://www.virginia.edu/economics/phd.htm or from the graduate secretary.

Master of Arts

While not offering a terminal master’s program, the Department does award a master’s degree to students on their way to the Ph.D.  A candidate must complete 30 credits of course work, including Microeconomic Theory I (ECON 701), Macroeconomic Theory I (ECON 702) and Econometrics (ECON 771 or 772), and must write and defend a thesis. As an alternative, the student may complete the first two semesters of the Ph.D. program and pass the preliminary comprehensive examination on core economic theory and econometrics. All requirements must be completed within five years of matriculation.

The Tipton R. Snavely Prize

The Tipton R. Snavely Prize of $3,000 is awarded triennially to the student submitting the most meritorious dissertation for the Ph.D. degree in Economics.

The Thomas Jefferson Center for Studies in Political Economy

The Thomas Jefferson Center for Studies in Political Economy, established in 1957, facilitates research efforts in the department of economics. Specific activities of the Center have included sponsoring visiting scholars and professors, sponsoring lectures and seminars, awarding fellowships, and publishing research results.

The Tipton R. Snavely Graduate Economics Library